How to Care for Echeveria
As a beauty representative in the succulent world, Echeveria, with its lotus-like leaves, is deeply loved by plant enthusiasts. However, to cultivate a plump and vibrant rosette shape, one needs to master scientific care methods. This article will systematically analyze core techniques such as temperature control, watering and fertilizing management, and pest and disease prevention, to help you easily cultivate healthy and beautiful Echeveria.
1. Environmental Control Techniques
Key Points of Temperature Control
Echeveria is extremely sensitive to temperature changes, with 15-28℃ being the best growth range. In winter, it is necessary to maintain a temperature above 10℃ to survive, and when the temperature drops to 5℃, the plant enters a dormant period, at which point watering should be completely stopped to prevent frostbite. In summer, when temperatures exceed 35℃, it should be moved to a shady and well-ventilated area to avoid leaf damage from high temperatures.
Analysis of Light Requirements
In spring and autumn, 6 hours of scattered light per day can maintain bright leaf color, and in winter, it can accept full sunlight. In summer, a shading net should be used to filter strong light and prevent sunburn on the leaf surface. Remember to regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure for the plant.
2. Watering and Fertilizing Management Tips
Precise Watering Plan
In the growing period, adopt the principle of "thoroughly wetting after drying", watering once every 7-10 days in spring and autumn. During the summer dormant period, water slightly once a month, and in winter, water a small amount along the pot edge every 20-30 days. Use a narrow-spouted pot to precisely control the amount of water and avoid water accumulating in the leaf heart, leading to rot.
Scientific Fertilizing Strategy
Apply diluted 2000 times succulent-specific fertilizer monthly, combined with slow-release fertilizer once each in spring and autumn. When fertilizing, avoid the leaf surface and pour around the edge of the pot in a circular pattern. New plants need to be acclimatized for one month before fertilizing.
3. Advanced Care Techniques
Repotting Guide
Change to a larger, breathable red pottery pot every 1-2 years, with a pot diameter 3-4 cm larger than the plant. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the protective soil, trim the blackened roots, and let them dry for 2 days before potting. Use a mixed substrate of peat soil and perlite in a 1:1 ratio.